By Augustine Oduor and Leah Gondi-Ogondi
The Government has pledged clear regulations and licensing regime in the mining industry to ensure Kenyans benefit from exploration deals.
Mining Secretary Najib Balala said no person or agency shall be licensed unless they prove they are competent and able to deliver.
He promised to ensure transparency in management of natural resources and to promote Kenya as a mining destination.
“We shall not give licenses to speculators. To explore any mineral the investors must prove their resource base to complete the job and deliver on the deal,” he said.
Speaking yesterday at his Public Works offices in Nairobi, Mr Balala said he would prioritise enactment of a new Mining Act. He disclosed that the Mining Bill which had already been passed by Cabinet shall be discussed afresh and new ideas from stakeholders incorporated. “We will include recommendations from the Attorney General and other stakeholders and return the Bill to Cabinet for approval. I will then forward it to Parliament to be passed,” Balala said.
He said the ministry has organised a two-day workshop next week on Wednesday to discuss the Bill. “We have invited top geologists, Chamber of Mines, Geological Society of Kenya and University of Nairobi staff from the Geology Department,” he added.
Balala said Commission on Implementation of the Constitution Chairman Charles Nyachae and the National Lands Commission boss will also attend the forum. “This meeting is fundamental in the manner in which we shall run the ministry,” he added.
The Cabinet Secretary also promised to ensure the country is mapped to establish equitable distribution and of the nation’s wealth.
Separately, Health Secretary James Macharia formally took office and promised radical changes that would enable him to deliver on his mandate.
Mr Macharia said he will reorganise all departments to guarantee effective and efficient service delivery.
“I will facilitate constant communication with my staff through dialogue to promote development in this Ministry and other health facilities across the country,” he said.
